They let your wavy white hair grow long
arranged it every morning
placed in an elastic band
on top of your head
they said how pretty
you looked like a doll.
Yet I saw the darkness you endured
your century tired eyes unfocused
in the center distorted, partial view
impossible to discern those you loved
even when for one moment
your mind had clear vision.
I heard the silence that engulfed you
our voices fading in and out of reach
until to unscramble
was out of the question.
I sensed your inner shadows shift
from departed friends to monsters
a pale pink poodle that sat tucked in your lap
was all that could calm you.
But in this instant the demons
have gone away if only
for a short time
ecstasy, bliss as you sleep.
I wish you had been this way when you left us.
©Elizabeth Siegfried 2021